The Importance of Regular Oil Changes for Your Ford

Oil is essential for your engine and is the second most important vehicle fluid after fuel. As your Ford dealer, we want to tell you more about what it does for your engine and why a regular oil change is important.

From Your Ford Dealer: What Oil Does and Why an Oil Change Is Important

What Oil Does

Oil is a lubricant that’s pumped through your engine by the oil pump. It coats numerous engine components in a friction-resistant coating, allowing them to work faster while protecting them from damage. Its movement cools engine components, reducing the temperature in the engine bay. Finally, it contains additives that keep the engine clean, break down potential engine blockages, and prevent rust.

Depending on your Ford model, you may have regular or synthetic oil. The two types of oil perform the same functions, but synthetic oil has a longer working life, so it’s changed less frequently. Regular oil needs replacement after 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while synthetic oil should be replaced between 7,500 and 10,000 miles.

Why Change the Oil?

Some of the oil is consumed by your engine as it works, reducing the pressure and speed of the remaining oil. The oil absorbs dirt, minute metal pieces, and other debris in the engine. This accumulated junk thickens the oil, slowing its movement. As the oil ages, it loses many of its benefits, leading to increased wear and tear on engine components.

Signs You Need an Oil Change

Noisy Engine

The reduced lubrication from old oil causes some engine components to grind against each other rather than move smoothly. This produces tiny metal fragments, which are then absorbed by the oil, decreasing the oil’s effectiveness even further.

Blue Exhaust Smoke

Blue-tinged exhaust smoke is a sign your engine is burning oil. The oil lubricates engine seals, but the poor lubrication from older oil causes them to dry out. This can allow some of the oil to enter the engine cylinders, where it’s burnt with the fuel-air mixture.

Reduced Fuel Economy

Old oil forces your engine to work harder due to the friction caused by a lack of adequate lubrication, causing it to use more fuel.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light illuminates when engine sensors detect a problem in the engine and inform your computer. All the above signs will cause your computer to trigger this light as a warning something is wrong.

IOLM Warning

If your Ford has an Intelligent Oil Life Monitoring (ILOM) system, it will warn you when the oil has lost its effectiveness and needs replacement. A warning icon will appear on your screen to tell you to change the oil soon.

Our technicians will change your oil and install a new oil filter, and your engine will return to peak efficiency. Contact our service department today at Ewald’s Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI.

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